Divorce is rarely easy, especially when children are involved. In Massachusetts, parents are obligated to financially support their children. As such, child support is often a contentious issue that needs to be addressed. Once a judge makes a custody decision, the non-custodial parent will likely be required to pay child support to cover the costs associated with their child’s upbringing. In Massachusetts, a parent’s child support obligation typically ends when the child reaches the age of emancipation. However, a child may want to be emancipated from their parent’s control and support sooner. Please continue reading to learn when a child is considered legally emancipated and why connecting with our trusted Bristol County Child Support Lawyers is in your best interest.
When is a Child Emancipated in Massachusetts?
In the state of Massachusetts, a child may reach emancipation in one of two ways: reaching a certain age or being self-supporting. Once a child is deemed legally emancipated, their parents will no longer be required to pay child support. This is because they are considered an adult, independent enough to no longer require parental control or support.
In most cases, once a child reaches the age of 18, they may be emancipated. Under certain circumstances, there are cases in which emancipation ends early or may be extended. For instance, it may continue until the child’s 23rd birthday depending on the court’s order. Once a child turns 23, child support is no longer permitted to be requested. The following situations can result in emancipation:
- The child reaches the age of 18
- The child enters the military
- The child gets married
- The child gets pregnant
- The child lives independently
Can a Child Emancipate Themselves?
In some cases, a child may want to be emancipated from their parent’s support. If this is the case, the child can petition the court for emancipation. It’s important to understand that while the child may have valid reasons as to why they should be emancipated, it’s not guaranteed. The court has full discretion to decide whether or not to grant this request. In addition, they can un-emancipate a minor child if it’s discovered that the child is not financially independent.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding a child support order, please don’t hesitate to contact our dedicated family law attorneys today to discuss the specifics of your case. At The Law Offices of Cynthia L. Hanley, P.C., we are prepared to help you navigate your legal options and represent your legal needs. Connect with our dedicated legal team today to learn more about how we can assist you during these complex matters.
